U.S. patent application number 17/047005 was filed with the patent office on 2021-06-24 for sealing enclosure arrangements for optical fiber cables.
This patent application is currently assigned to CommScope ConnecTivity Belgium BVBA. The applicant listed for this patent is COMMSCOPE CONNECTIVITY BELGIUM BVBA. Invention is credited to Bart Mattie CLAESSENS, Ronnie Rosa Georges LIEFSOENS, Eric SCHURMANS, Dirk Jozef G. VAN DE WEYER, Kristof VASTMANS, Jiri ZAVREL.
Application Number | 20210191057 17/047005 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005473576 |
Filed Date | 2021-06-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210191057 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LIEFSOENS; Ronnie Rosa Georges ;
et al. |
June 24, 2021 |
SEALING ENCLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS FOR OPTICAL FIBER CABLES
Abstract
Pairs of windows are cut into a distribution cable at various
points along the length to couple some of the optical fibers of the
distribution cable to drop cables. A wrap-type sealing arrangement
can seal a first window of each pair. An enclosure-type sealing
arrangement can seal a second window of each pair. The enclosure
includes a splice tray and cable storage. Optical adapters and/or a
passive splitter also may be disposed within the enclosure.
Inventors: |
LIEFSOENS; Ronnie Rosa Georges;
(Tessenderlo, BE) ; ZAVREL; Jiri; (Leuven, BE)
; SCHURMANS; Eric; (Hogen-Geetbets, BE) ;
VASTMANS; Kristof; (Kessel-Lo, BE) ; VAN DE WEYER;
Dirk Jozef G.; (Beringen, BE) ; CLAESSENS; Bart
Mattie; (Hasselt, BE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COMMSCOPE CONNECTIVITY BELGIUM BVBA |
Kessel-Lo |
|
BE |
|
|
Assignee: |
CommScope ConnecTivity Belgium
BVBA
Kessel-Lo
BE
|
Family ID: |
1000005473576 |
Appl. No.: |
17/047005 |
Filed: |
April 12, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
April 12, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2019/059552 |
371 Date: |
October 12, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62832041 |
Apr 10, 2019 |
|
|
|
62681923 |
Jun 7, 2018 |
|
|
|
62660019 |
Apr 19, 2018 |
|
|
|
62656896 |
Apr 12, 2018 |
|
|
|
62656853 |
Apr 12, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02B 6/4454 20130101;
G02B 6/4248 20130101; G02B 6/4477 20130101; G02B 6/4447
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G02B 6/44 20060101
G02B006/44; G02B 6/42 20060101 G02B006/42 |
Claims
1. An enclosure arrangement for sealing a window cut into a
telecommunications cable, the enclosure arrangement comprising: a
re-enterable enclosure having first and second ends extending
between first and second sides to define an interior, the enclosure
defining a first aligned pair of distribution cable ports disposed
towards the first end, a second aligned pair of distribution cable
ports disposed towards the second end, and a plurality of aligned
pairs of drop cable ports disposed between the first and second
aligned pairs of distribution cable ports, the distribution cable
ports being larger than the drop cable ports; a management
arrangement being selectively mountable within the interior of the
enclosure in a first orientation and in a second orientation that
is flipped 180.degree. from the first orientation, the management
arrangement including a fiber guide channels supporting FIG. 8
routing; and a tray arrangement that mounts within the interior of
the enclosure, the tray arrangement including one or more trays
each being configured to pivot relative to the management
arrangement between a stowed position and an access position.
2. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, wherein the management
arrangement is configured to be mounted in the first orientation
when the first aligned pair receives the telecommunications cable
and wherein the management arrangement is configured to be mounted
in the second orientation when the second aligned pair receives the
telecommunications cable.
3. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, wherein the interior of
the enclosure is environmentally sealed, wherein each of the
distribution cable ports and drop cable ports are environmentally
sealed.
4. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, wherein the enclosure
includes a base and a cover that pivots relative to the base to
provide access to the interior of the enclosure.
5. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, wherein the base defines
the first aligned pair of distribution cable ports, the second
aligned pair of distribution cable ports, and the aligned pairs of
drop cable ports, and wherein the base includes anchor members
extending outwardly from respective ones of the first and second
distribution cable ports and the drop cable ports; and wherein the
cover extends sufficiently beyond the base to block the anchor
members from view.
6. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, wherein the tray
arrangement is selectively mountable within the interior of the
enclosure in a first orientation and in a second orientation that
is flipped 180.degree. from the first orientation.
7. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, wherein the tray
arrangement is separately mounted to the enclosure from the
management arrangement.
8. The enclosure arrangement of claim 1, further comprising anchor
members disposed within the interior of the enclosure adjacent the
first aligned pair of distribution cable ports, the second aligned
pair of distribution cable ports, and the aligned pairs of drop
cable ports.
9. The enclosure arrangement of claim 8, wherein the anchor members
adjacent the first aligned pair of distribution cable ports and the
second aligned pair of distribution cable ports include cable
clamps and the anchor members adjacent the aligned pairs of drop
cable ports include cable tie supporting members.
10. The enclosure system of claim 1, wherein each tray of the tray
arrangement includes a base defining a plurality of mounting
stations at which various components can be selectively mounted,
each mounting station including a first mounting structure, wherein
each of the various components includes a second mounting structure
that fits with the first mounting structure to hold the component
at the mounting station.
11. The enclosure system of claim 10, wherein the various
components include a bend radius insert and a splice holder.
12. The enclosure system of claim 11, wherein the various
components also include a splitter holder.
13. The enclosure system of claim 11, wherein the various
components also include a routing guide.
14. The enclosure system of claim 1, wherein each tray of the tray
arrangement is elongate between opposite first and second ends,
each tray includes a first fiber entrance at the first end and a
second fiber entrance at the second end.
15. The enclosure system of claim 14, further comprising a
respective fiber retainer mounted at the first fiber entrance, the
second fiber entrance, or both, each fiber retainer including a
resilient piece defining fiber channels and a cover that mounts
over the resilient piece to close the fiber channels.
16.-30. (canceled)
31. A universal cassette system comprising: a tray including a base
defining a component mounting region, the component mounting region
including a plurality of mounting stations, each mounting station
including a respective first mounting structure; and a plurality of
tray components, each tray component including a second mounting
structure configured to mate with the first mounting structure at
one or more of the mounting stations.
32. The universal cassette system of claim 31, wherein the tray
components include a bend radius limiter arrangement.
33. The universal cassette system of claim 32, wherein the bend
radius limiter arrangement includes a first spool and a second
spool spaced from the first spool a sufficient distance to provide
FIG. 8 routing.
34. The universal cassette system of claim 31, wherein the tray
components include a splice holder.
35. The universal cassette system of claim 31, wherein the tray
components include a splitter holder.
36.-74. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent
Application Ser. No. 62/656,853, filed on Apr. 12, 2018, and claims
the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/656,896, filed
on Apr. 12, 2018, and claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application
Ser. No. 62/660,019, filed on Apr. 19, 2018, and claims the benefit
of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/681,923, filed on Jun. 7,
2018, and claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No.
62/832,041, filed on Apr. 10, 2019, the disclosures of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Fiber optic telecommunications technology is becoming more
prevalent as service providers strive to deliver higher bandwidth
communication capabilities to customers/subscribers. As data
transmissions increase, the fiber optic network is being extended
closer to the end user which can be a premise, business, or a
private residence.
[0003] As telecommunication cables are routed across data networks,
it is necessary to periodically open the cable so that one or more
telecommunication lines therein may be spliced, thereby allowing
data to be distributed to other cables or "branches" of the
telecommunication network. At each point where a telecommunication
cable is opened, it is necessary to provide a telecommunications
enclosure to protect the exposed interior of the cable. The cable
branches may be further distributed until the network reaches
individual homes, businesses, offices, and so on. These networks
are often referred to as fiber to the premise (FTTP) or fiber to
the home (FTTH) networks. In an FTTH network, fiber optic cable is
run from the service provider's central office to an ONT located at
the subscriber's residence or office space.
[0004] Improvements in telecommunications enclosures to protect the
exposed interior of fiber optic cables are desirable.
SUMMARY
[0005] Features of the present disclosure relate to a fiber
distribution system in which pairs of windows are cut into a
distribution cable at various points along the length to couple
some of the optical fibers of the distribution cable to drop
cables. Select fibers are cut at the first window and retracted
through the second window. A first sealing arrangement seals the
first window of each pair. A second sealing arrangement seals the
second window of each pair. The second sealing arrangement also
manages the cut optical fibers to enable the cut optical fibers to
be optically coupled to one or more drop cables.
[0006] In accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure, the
first sealing arrangement includes a wrap-style sealing
arrangement. In certain implementations, the first sealing
arrangement includes a sheet and a clip. The sheet is wrapped
around the cable at the window to form a roll. The roll is wrapped
sufficiently tightly around the cable to seal against the cable
jacket. The clip holds the roll to the cable and inhibits
unwrapping of the sheet.
[0007] In accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure, the
second sealing arrangement includes an enclosure-type sealing
arrangement. The enclosure includes a base and a pivotal cover. The
enclosure includes a splice tray and cable storage. In certain
examples, optical adapters and/or a passive splitter also may be
disposed within the enclosure.
[0008] In accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure, the
enclosure of the second sealing arrangement can be shaped so that a
first end appears larger than a second end. The enclosure includes
distribution cable ports towards the first end and includes drop
cable ports towards the second end. In certain examples, the
enclosure appears larger (e.g., longer, thicker, etc.) where the
distribution cable extends from the enclosure as compared to where
the drop cables extend from the enclosure. In certain examples, the
sides of the enclosure has similar contouring to the drop cables
extending from the enclosure towards the distribution cable. In
certain examples, the cover of the enclosure overhangs the base. In
an example, the cover overhangs the base at the distribution cable
ports and/or at the drop cable ports.
[0009] These and other features and advantages will be apparent
from a reading of the following detailed description and a review
of the associated drawings. A variety of additional aspects will be
set forth in the description that follows. These aspects can relate
to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be
understood that both the foregoing general description and the
following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only
and are not restrictive of the broad concepts upon which the
embodiments disclosed herein are based.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a fiber optic
network including a cable passing through an optical termination
enclosure, the cable having an incision in accord with principles
of the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the fiber optic
network shown in FIG. 1 with an optical fiber retracted from the
cable and an enclosure arrangement positioned over the incision in
accord with the principles of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a first example sealing arrangement
suitable for sealing a first window cut into the cable of FIG. 1,
the first sealing arrangement including a sheet and a clip.
[0013] FIG. 4 shows the sheet of FIG. 3 wrapped around a cable and
the clip of FIG. 3 holding the sheet in a roll.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the 5-5 line of
FIG. 4.
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative sealing arrangement
suitable for sealing a first window cut into the cable of FIG.
1.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of an example enclosure
suitable for sealing a second window cut into the distribution
cable of FIG. 1, the enclosure including a base and a cover shown
in the closed position.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
7.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
7.
[0019] FIGS. 10-15 show footprints of alternative enclosure designs
suitable for sealing the second window cut into the distribution
cable of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
7 with the cover shown in the open position so the splice tray of a
first management arrangement is visible in the storage
position.
[0021] FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
16 with the splice tray shown in the access position and the cover
of the enclosure removed for ease in viewing.
[0022] FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the splice tray of FIG.
17.
[0023] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
7 with the cover shown in the open position so the splice tray of a
second management arrangement is visible in the storage
position.
[0024] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
19 with the splice tray shown in the access position and the cover
of the enclosure removed for ease in viewing.
[0025] FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the splice tray of FIG.
20.
[0026] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
7 with the cover shown in the open position so the splice tray of a
third management arrangement is visible in the storage
position.
[0027] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
22 with the splice tray shown in the access position and the cover
of the enclosure removed for ease in viewing.
[0028] FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the splice tray of FIG.
23.
[0029] FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
7 with the cover shown in the open position so the splice tray of a
fourth management arrangement is visible in the storage
position.
[0030] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
25 with the splice tray shown in the access position and the cover
of the enclosure removed for ease in viewing.
[0031] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of another example enclosure
suitable for sealing a second window cut into the distribution
cable of FIG. 1, the enclosure including a base and a cover shown
in the closed position.
[0032] FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
27 with the cover shown in the open position so the splice tray of
a management arrangement is visible in the access position.
[0033] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
27 with the cover shown in the open position so the splice tray of
a management arrangement is visible in the stowed position, the
management arrangement being flipped 180.degree. relative to the
management arrangement of FIG. 28.
[0034] FIG. 30 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
27 with additional splice trays added to the management arrangement
in a stack.
[0035] FIG. 31 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
30 with the cover shown in the open position so the stack of splice
trays is visible.
[0036] FIG. 32 is a front perspective view of another example
enclosure suitable for sealing a second window cut into the
distribution cable of FIG. 1, the enclosure including a base and a
cover shown in the closed position.
[0037] FIG. 33 is a rear perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
32.
[0038] FIG. 34 is a front perspective view of the base of the
enclosure of FIG. 32 with the cover removed and a management
arrangement exploded upwardly from the base;
[0039] FIG. 35 is a front perspective view of the management
arrangement of FIG. 34;
[0040] FIG. 36 is a rear perspective view of the management
arrangement of FIG. 34;
[0041] FIG. 37 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
32 shown with the cover open, the management arrangement disposed
in a first orientation, and the tray arrangement removed.
[0042] FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
37 with a tray mounted to the enclosure in a first orientation, the
tray disposed in a stowed position.
[0043] FIG. 39 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
38 with the tray disposed in the access position.
[0044] FIG. 40 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
32 shown with the cover open, the management arrangement disposed
in a second orientation flipped 180 degrees from the first
orientation, and the tray arrangement removed.
[0045] FIG. 41 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
40 with a tray mounted to the enclosure in a second orientation,
the tray disposed in a stowed position.
[0046] FIG. 42 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
41 with the tray disposed in the access position.
[0047] FIG. 43 is a front perspective view of an example tray
suitable for use with any of the tray arrangements disclosed
herein.
[0048] FIG. 44 is a rear perspective view of the tray of FIG.
43.
[0049] FIG. 45 is a front perspective view of the tray of FIG. 43
with various components exploded off the tray so that the mounting
stations are visible.
[0050] FIG. 46 is a rear perspective view of the tray of FIG.
45.
[0051] FIG. 47 is a front perspective view of the example enclosure
of FIG. 41 with an upgraded cover and an upgraded tray
arrangement.
[0052] FIG. 48 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
47 with the upgraded tray arrangement disposed in the first
orientation and each of the trays moved to the access position.
[0053] FIG. 49 is a front perspective view of the enclosure of FIG.
47 with the upgraded tray arrangement disposed in the second
orientation and each of the trays moved to the access position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0054] A feature of the present disclosure relates to an enclosure
arrangement for resealing an opening in an optical cable.
[0055] When expanding an optical network into a new neighborhood or
other location, one or more distribution cables 12 can be routed
through the neighborhood. One or more fibers are broken out from a
distribution cable 12 at various points along the route to provide
service to subscribers. The broken out fibers can be optically
coupled to drop cables 13, which are routed to the subscribers. For
example, the broken out fibers can be coupled to the drop cables 13
at an optical terminal enclosure (OTE).
[0056] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a portion of a fiber optic network
10 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In
such an embodiment, a telecommunications cable 12 (e.g., a single
fiber or multi-fiber distribution cable) is shown passing through
an example OTE 14. The telecommunications cable 12 may have on the
order of twelve to forty-eight fibers 22; however, alternative
implementations may include fewer or more fibers. While
telecommunications cables typically have a large number of fibers
22, the various aspects of the present disclosure are also
applicable to distribution cables having fewer numbers of fibers 22
(e.g., 2 or more fibers).
[0057] In certain examples, the telecommunications cable 12 can
include an outer jacket 16 enclosing a single buffer tube 15 and at
least two strength members extending on opposite sides of the
single buffer tube. An outer strength member 11 such as Kevlar can
surround the single buffer tube 15 within the jacket 16. The single
buffer tube 15 can enclose loose fibers or ribbon fibers. In other
examples, the fibers 22 can be loose within the outer jacket 16. In
other examples, the cable 12 can include a single strength
member.
[0058] An incision 18 (e.g., cut) can be made in the outer jacket
16 of the telecommunications cable 12 such that a portion of the
outer jacket 16 may be removed from the telecommunications cable 12
that is outside the OTE 14 to provide a window 20 (i.e., opening)
that exposes optical fibers 22. One or more of the optical fibers
22 of the telecommunications cable 12 may be cut at a location 24
aligned with the window 20.
[0059] The cut optical fiber 22a (FIG. 2) may be retracted out of
the telecommunications cable 12 while the remaining optical fibers
22 of the telecommunications cable 12 are uncut and continue to
pass through. For example, a second incision can be made in the
outer jacket 16 such that a portion of the outer jacket 16 may be
removed to provide a second window 19. The cut optical fiber 22a
can be retracted out of the cable 12 through the second window
19.
[0060] The OTE 14 is mounted over the second window 19 to seal the
second window 19. The cut optical fibers 22a retracted out of the
cable 12 are protected and managed within the OTE 14. For example,
the OTE 14 can include a splice tray 28, 71, 101, 131, optical
adapters 120, 150, 180, and/or an optical splitter to which the cut
optical fibers 22a can be optically coupled. In certain examples,
the cut optical fibers 22a can be spliced at a splice location 26
within splice tray 28 for facilitating coupling of the cut optical
fiber 22a to a subscriber location 30. In other examples, the cut
optical fiber 22a can be routed directly to the subscriber location
30 and spliced there rather than within the OTE 14.
[0061] The OTE 14 is configured to be mounted vertically to a wall
or other surface so that the distribution cable 12 extends
generally horizontally across the OTE 14. The distribution cable 12
may extend across many buildings or other structures. Multiple sets
of first and second windows 18, 19 may be cut into the cable 12 and
multiple OTEs 14 may be disposed along the cable 12 at the second
windows 19. One or more drop cables 13 extend out from each OTE 14
towards subscribers. In certain implementations, the drop cables 13
may extend generally upwardly (e.g., vertically) towards the
subscribers. In certain implementations, the drop cables 13 are
routed towards the distribution cable 12 and then run along the
distribution cable 12 (e.g., wrapped around the cable 12 or secured
to the cable 12) over a distance towards the subscribers.
[0062] A sealing arrangement 32 is mounted over the first window 18
to environmentally seal the telecommunications cable 12. The
distance between the OTE 14 and the sealing arrangement 32 can be
from about 2 meters up to about 100 meters. The distance can vary
with the length of the telecommunications cable 12 and the required
distance to be routed. The distance can also depend on the path of
travel whether it is a straight path or a path with many turns. The
location of the incision or cut will also be a factor in addition
to the friction of the cable.
[0063] FIGS. 3-5 illustrate a first example implementation 32A
(FIG. 4) of the sealing arrangement 32. The sealing arrangement 32A
includes a sheet 41 and a clip 42. The sheet 41 is wrapped around
the telecommunications cable 12 at the first window 18 to form a
layered roll 43. The roll 43 environmentally seal the cable 12 to
inhibit ingress of water or other contaminants at the window 18.
The clip 42 is positioned over the roll 43 to hold the roll 43 to
the cable 12.
[0064] The sheet 41 has opposite facing first and second major
sides 48 separated by a peripheral edge. The first and second major
sides 48 extend along a length between first and second ends 44, 45
and along a width between first and second sides 46, 47. In certain
examples, the length and width of the sheet 41 are both
significantly larger than a thickness of the peripheral edge. In
the example shown, the sheet 41 is generally rectangular. In other
examples, however, the sheet 41 can be irregularly shaped,
rhombus-shaped, parallelogram-shaped, oblong, or any other desired
shape.
[0065] In some examples, the sheet 41 is formed of rubber. In other
examples, the sheet is formed of a gel (e.g., a hydrocarbon gel, a
silicone gel, etc.). In other examples, the sheet 41 can be formed
of another environmentally sealing material.
[0066] The clip 42 includes a backbone 49 from which a plurality of
flexible arms 50 extend to define a passage 52 extending along the
backbone 49. Each arm 50 extends from the backbone 49 to a
respective distal end 51. In certain examples, the arms 50 extend
away from the backbone 49 in pairs. In certain examples, the distal
ends 51 of each pair of arms 50 are separated by a gap providing
lateral access to the passage 52. In certain examples, the arms 50
of each pair curve to form a C-shape. In certain examples, the clip
42 is formed from an elastomeric material. In other examples, the
clip 42 is formed from a flexible plastic material. In other
examples, the clip 42 is formed from metal.
[0067] In some examples, the sheet 41 is positioned so that the
first side 46 is disposed at the cable 12 so that the sheet 41
extends across the first window 18 defined in the cable 12. The
first end 44 of the sheet 41 is disposed a distance to one side of
the window 18 and the second end 45 is disposed a distance to the
opposite side of the window 18. The sheet 41 is then wrapped about
the cable 12 to form the roll 43 until the second side 47 is
layered at an exterior of the roll 43. In other examples, the cable
12 can be wrapped in the sheet 41 starting at an intermediate point
between first and second sides 46, 47 so that both sides 46, 47 end
up at the exterior of the roll 43.
[0068] The clip 42 is mounted over the layered roll 43 to hold the
layered roll 43 to the telecommunications cable 12. For example,
the clip 42 can be slid laterally over the roll 43 so that the roll
43 passes through the gap between the distal ends 51 of the arms
50. When the layered roll 43 is disposed within the passage 52 of
the clip 42, the arms 50 wrap circumferentially around the layered
roll 43 (see FIGS. 4 and 5).
[0069] FIG. 6 shows an alternative sealing arrangement 32B for the
first window 18. The sealing arrangement 32B includes an enclosure
55 that fits over the cable 12 at the first window 18. The
enclosure 55 defines a passage along which the cable 12 extends
between opposite open ends. In certain examples, the enclosure 55
includes a clam-shell or other two-piece structure to mount around
the cable 12. The enclosure 55 includes gaskets, gel, or other
sealing material inside to seal against the cable 12.
[0070] FIGS. 7-9 illustrate an example enclosure 60 suitable for
use as an OTE 14 to seal over the second window 19. The enclosure
60 has opposite first and second ends 63, 64 extending between
opposite first and second sides 61, 62. The first end 63 of the
enclosure 60 is longer than the second end 64. The enclosure 60
includes a base 65 and a cover 66 that cooperate to define an
interior. The cover 66 is pivotal relative to the base 65 between a
closed position (FIGS. 7-9) and an open position (e.g., FIG.
16).
[0071] A first distribution cable port 67 is disposed at the first
side 61 of the enclosure 60 and a second distribution cable port 67
disposed at the second side 62 of the enclosure 60. The second
distribution cable port 67 is aligned with the first distribution
cable port 67 so that the cable 12 can extend linearly through the
enclosure 60.
[0072] A first drop cable port 68 is disposed at the first side 61
and a second drop cable port 68 is disposed at the second side 62.
In some implementations, the drop cable ports 68 are smaller than
the distribution cable ports 67. In other implementations, the drop
cable ports 68 are the same size as the distribution cable ports
67. In certain implementations, each side 61, 62 also defines
additional drop cable ports 68. In some examples, each side 61, 62
has a common number of drop cable ports 68. In other examples,
however, the sides 61, 62 can have different numbers of drop cable
ports 68.
[0073] In certain implementations, the distribution cable ports 67
are disposed closer to the first end 63 of the enclosure 60 than
the drop cable ports 68. In some examples, the distribution cable
ports 67 are disposed adjacent the first end 63 of the enclosure
and the drop cable ports 68 are disposed at an intermediate
location between the first and second ends 63, 64 of the enclosure
60. In certain examples, one or more of the drop cable ports 68 may
be disposed at the second end 64 of the enclosure 60.
[0074] In certain implementations, first and second side walls of
the enclosure 60 transition between the first end 63 and the second
end 64 so that a longer portion L of the enclosure 60 aligns with
the first and second distribution cable ports 67 and a shorter
portion S of the enclosure 60 aligns with the first and second drop
cable ports 68. In such implementations, the enclosure 60 may
appear larger at the portion L from which the distribution cable 12
extends and the enclosure 60 may appear smaller at the portion S
from which one or more of the drop cables 13 extend.
[0075] In some implementations, the base 65 and the cover 66
cooperate to define the longer portion L and the shorter portion S.
In other implementations, however, the cover 66 defines at least
the longer portion L, which overhangs the base 65. In certain
implementations, the base 65 defines the distribution cable ports
67 and the longer portion L of the cover 66 overhangs the
distribution cable ports 67. In certain examples, the base 65 also
defines the drop cable ports 68. In certain implementations, the
cover 66 also defines the shorter portion S, which also overhangs
the drop cable ports 68 of the base 65. For example, as shown in
FIG. 9, the cover 66 may include wings 69 that extend laterally
outwardly past the cable ports 67, 68.
[0076] In the example enclosure 60 shown in FIGS. 7-9, the wings 69
extend laterally outwardly towards the first end 63 of the
enclosure 60 and then contour downwardly and laterally inwardly
towards the second end 64 of the enclosure 60. In the example
shown, sides 69a of the wings 69 have a convex curvature. In other
examples, however, the sides 69a may have a concave curvature.
[0077] FIGS. 10-15 illustrate alternative example enclosures
60A-60F suitable for use in sealing the second window 19 cut into
the distribution cable 12. In FIG. 10, the enclosure 60A has a
longer portion L closer to the first end 63 and a shorter portion S
closer to the second end 64. Sides of the enclosure 60A have a
concave curvature transitioning between the longer portion L and
the shorter portion S. In certain examples, the sides generally
have a concave curvature transitioning between the first and second
ends 63, 67.
[0078] The enclosure 60B of FIG. 11 also has a longer portion L
aligned with the distribution cable ports 67 and a shorter portion
S aligned with the drop cable ports 68. In the example shown, the
shorter portion S is stepped inwardly from the longer portion L. In
certain examples, the longer portion L also can define a taper
towards the shorter portion S.
[0079] The enclosure 60C of FIG. 12 also has a longer portion L
aligned with the distribution cable ports 67 and a shorter portion
S aligned with the drop cable ports 68. In certain examples, the
enclosure 60C includes wings 69c that extend outwardly beyond the
cable ports 67, 68. In certain examples, sides of the wings 69c
taper inwardly as the wings 69c extend from the longer portion L
towards the second end 64 of the enclosure 60C. In certain
examples, the sides of the wings 69c at the longer portion L that
aligns with the distribution cable ports 67 extend straight down
until the wings 69c start to taper inwardly.
[0080] The enclosure 60D of FIG. 13 has sides 61, 62 that define a
convex curvature between the first and second ends 63, 64 of the
enclosure 60D. The first and second ends 63, 64 of enclosure 60D
appear to have generally the same length.
[0081] The enclosure 60E of FIG. 14 has a first end 63 that is
longer than the second end 64. The sides 61, 62 of the enclosure
60E define a convex curvature extending away from the first end 63
of the enclosure 60E. The sides 61, 62 then step inwardly at a
point towards the second end 64 of the enclosure 60E. The sides 61,
62 then taper inwardly from the point to the second end 64.
[0082] The enclosure 60F of FIG. 15 has first and second ends 63,
64 that are generally the same length. Sides 61, 62 of the
enclosure 60F have a generally concave curvature between the first
and second ends 63, 64. Accordingly, the enclosure 60F has a
waisted shape.
[0083] FIGS. 16-26 illustrate various management arrangements
suitable for managing the cut optical fibers within any of the
various enclosures 60, 60A-60F described herein. For convenience,
the management arrangements are shown disposed in the enclosure 60.
It will be understood, however, that any of the management
arrangements can be utilized with any of the other enclosures
60A-60F described herein.
[0084] FIGS. 16-18 illustrate a first implementation of a
management arrangement 70 including a splice tray 71 that
facilitates splicing the cut optical fibers of distribution cable
12 to fibers of drop cables 13. FIGS. 19-21 illustrate a second
implementation of a management arrangement 100 including a splice
tray 101 that facilitates splicing and/or connecting the cut
optical fibers of distribution cable 12 to fibers of drop cables
13. FIGS. 22-24 illustrate a third implementation of a management
arrangement 130 including a splice tray 131 that facilitates
splicing and/or connecting the cut optical fibers of distribution
cable 12 to fibers of drop cables 13. FIGS. 25-26 illustrate a
fourth implementation of a management arrangement 160 including the
splice tray 71 that facilitates splicing and/or connecting the cut
optical fibers of distribution cable 12 to fibers of drop cables
13. In an example, the splice tray 71 of management arrangement 160
is generally the same as the splice tray 71 of management
arrangement 70, except that optical adapters 180 are mounted to the
splice tray 71 of management arrangement 160 as will be discussed
in more detail herein.
[0085] Referring to FIGS. 16-26 in general, the cover 66 of the
enclosure 60 is mounted to the base 65 so that the cover 66 pivots
relative to the base 65 between a closed position (FIGS. 7-9) and
an open position (e.g., FIGS. 16-17). The cover 66 blocks access to
the interior of the enclosure 60 when disposed in the closed
position. The cover 66 allows access to the interior when disposed
in the open position. The cover 66 pivots relative to the base 65
about a first pivot axis P1 that is disposed at the first end 63 of
the base 65. For example, hinge members on the cover 66 cooperate
with hinge members 65a disposed at the first end 63 of the base 65
to mount the cover 66 to the base 65.
[0086] In some examples, the cover 66 extends at a generally
90.degree. angle relative to the base 65 when in the open position.
In other examples, the cover 66 extends at a generally 180.degree.
angle relative to the base 65 when in the open position. In still
other examples, the cover 66 can extend at any desired angle (e.g.,
100.degree., 105.degree., 110.degree., 120.degree., 130.degree.,
etc.) relative to the base 65 when in the open position.
[0087] The base 65 and cover 66 cooperate to define a cable storage
region 72, 102, 132 disposed within the interior of the enclosure
60. A splice tray 71, 101, 131 mounts to the base 65 to selectively
cover the cable storage region 72, 102, 132.
[0088] The splice tray 71, 101, 131 extends between opposite first
and second sides 73, 74, 103, 104, 133, 134 and between opposite
first and second ends 75, 76, 105, 106, 135, 136. The splice tray
71, 101, 131 is pivotal relative to the base 65 along a second
pivot axis P2 (FIG. 16) to move between a storage position (FIG.
16) and an access position (FIG. 17). The second pivot axis P2 is
disposed at the second end 64 of the base 65 and at the first end
75, 105, 135 of the splice tray 71, 101, 131. In certain examples,
the second pivot axis P2 extends between hinge pins 78, 108, 138 of
two spaced-apart hinge members 77, 107, 137 extending from the
first end 75, 105, 135 of the splice tray 71, 101, 131. The hinge
pins 78, 108, 138 snap into or otherwise couple to hinge members
117 (FIG. 20) disposed within the base 65 at the second end 64 of
the base 65.
[0089] In some examples, the splice tray 71, 101, 131 extends at a
generally 90.degree. angle relative to the base 65 when in the
access position. In other examples, the splice tray 71, 101, 131
extends at a generally 180.degree. angle relative to the base 65
when in the access position. In still other examples, the splice
tray 71, 101, 131 can extend at any desired angle (e.g.,
100.degree., 105.degree., 110.degree., 120.degree., 130.degree.,
etc.) relative to the base 65 when in the access position. In an
example, the splice tray 71, 101, 131 is held at an angle of
105.degree. relative to the base to provide a work surface on which
a technician can splice or otherwise work with the cut fibers
within the enclosure 60.
[0090] The splice tray 71, 101, 131 includes a first closure member
85, 115, 145 (e.g., a tab) that fits with a second closure member
86, 116, 146 (e.g., a latch) to hold the splice tray 71, 101, 131
in the storage position (see FIG. 17). The second closure member
86, 116, 146 is disposed at the base 65. In certain examples, the
second closure member 86, 116, 146 is disposed within the base 65
at the first end 63. In certain examples, the splice tray 71, 101,
131 is moved from the storage position to the access position by
disengaging the second closure member 86, 116, 146 from the first
closure member 85, 115, 145.
[0091] The splice tray 71, 101, 131 has a fiber input region 79,
109, 139 disposed at the first end 75, 105, 135 and a splice region
81, 111, 141 disposed at the second end 76, 106, 136. In certain
implementations, the fiber input region 79, 109, 139 is disposed
between the two spaced-apart hinge members 77, 107, 137.
Accordingly, the fibers are routed onto the tray 71, 101, 131 at a
central region of the first end 75, 105, 135 of the tray 71, 101,
131.
[0092] The splice tray 71, 101, 131 defines a first fiber entrance
80, 110, 140 at the fiber input region 79, 109, 139. In the example
shown, the splice tray 71, 101, 131 defines first and second fiber
entrances 80, 110, 140 at the fiber input region 79, 109, 139. In
certain examples, the first fiber entrance 80, 110, 140 at least
partially faces the second fiber entrance 80, 110, 140. In certain
examples, the second end 76, 106, 136 of the splice tray 71, 101,
131 is generally flat and the first end 75, 105, 135 of the splice
tray 71, 101, 131 is contoured so that the first and second fiber
entrances 80, 110, 140 are angled towards each other.
[0093] The splice region 81, 111, 141 is configured to hold one or
more optical splices (e.g., fusion splices, mass fusion splices,
mechanical splices, etc.). In the example shown, the splice region
81, 111, 141 defines four slots to hold optical splices. In other
examples, the splice region 81, 111, 141 may include an empty
volume at which any of various splice chips can be mounted. The
splice chips can be configured to hold different numbers of splices
and/or splices of different sizes. Accordingly, the trays 71, 101,
131 can be customized for a particular use by selecting which
splice chip to position at the splice region 81, 111, 141.
[0094] In certain implementations, the splice tray 71, 101, 131
also can include a splitter region 81A, 111A, 141A at which a
passive optical power splitter or a passive wave division
multiplexer can be disposed. In certain examples, the splitter
region 81A, 111A, 141A is disposed at the second end 76, 106, 136
of the splice tray 71, 101, 131. In certain examples, the splitter
region 81A, 111A, 141A is disposed adjacent the splice region 81,
111, 141. In the examples shown in FIGS. 18, 24, and 26, the
splitter region 81A, 141A is disposed between the splice region 81,
141 and an end wall at the second end 76, 136 of the splice tray
71, 131. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the splitter region 111A
is disposed between the splice region 111 and a central region of
the splice tray 101.
[0095] A fiber path 82, 112, 142 extends along the splice tray 71,
101, 131 between the fiber input region 79, 109, 139 and the splice
region 81, 111, 141. One or more cable spools 83, 113, 143 are
disposed at a central region of the splice tray 71, 101, 131 to
store excess length of the fibers. In certain examples, the spools
83, 113 are separated by an open volume 84, 114.
[0096] In certain examples, the cable spools 83, 113, 143 are
shaped to accommodate loop winding and/or "FIG. 8" winding of
optical fibers. In loop winding, the optical fibers are coiled
around exteriors of the cable spools 83, 113, 143 without passing
between the spools. In "FIG. 8" winding, the optical fibers are
coiled in a FIG. 8 pattern so that the fibers pass between the
spools. The "FIG. 8" winding allows for reversing the winding
direction of the optical fibers.
[0097] In certain examples, one or more storage spools 88, 118 and
one or more radius limiters 89, 119 may be disposed within the base
65 for storing additional excess length of the fibers. In certain
examples, the storage spools 88, 118 also are shaped to accommodate
loop winding and/or "FIG. 8" winding of optical fibers.
[0098] In the example shown in FIG. 17, the fiber storage
structures 87 may be sized to fit within the open volume 84 when
the splice tray 71 is in the storage position. In the example shown
in FIG. 20, the volume 114 does not accommodate the fiber storage
structures. Rather, the splice tray 101 is sized to fit over the
fiber storage structures and still allow the cover 66 to close
relative to the base 65.
[0099] In the examples shown in FIGS. 17, 23, and 26, retention
blocks 90 can be disposed at the fiber entrances 80. The retention
blocks 90 can define one or more slits at which a fiber or buffer
tube can be held via a friction fit within the slit. In examples,
various designs of retention blocks 90 can be selectively mounted
at the fiber entrances 80 to accommodate different numbers of
fibers or types of cabling (e.g., loose fibers, ribbonized fibers,
buffered fibers, upjacketed fibers, etc.).
[0100] In the examples shown in FIGS. 19-26, one or more optical
adapters 120, 150, 180 are provided in the enclosure 60. In such
embodiments, the cut optical fibers of the distribution cable 12
can be spliced to connectorized optical pigtails plugged into first
ports of the optical adapters 120, 150, 180. In some examples,
connectorized ends of drop cables can be routed into the enclosure
60 via the drop cable ports 68 and plugged into second ports of the
optical adapters 120, 150, 180. In other examples, unconnectorized
ends of the drop cables can be routed into the enclosure and
spliced to connectorized pigtails, which are plugged into the
second ports of the optical adapters 120, 150, 180.
[0101] In the example management arrangements 100, 130 shown in
FIGS. 20 and 23, the optical adapters 120, 150 are disposed within
the cable storage region 72, 102 of the base 65. For example, the
optical adapters 120, 150 can be mounted in one or more rows and/or
one or more columns. In the example shown, the optical adapters
120, 150 are mounted in two rows of two adapters each. In the
example management arrangement 160 shown in FIG. 26, the optical
adapters 180 are carried by the splice tray 71. For example, the
adapters 180 can be mounted to an opposite face of the splice tray
71 from the splice region 81 (see FIG. 26).
[0102] FIGS. 27-32 illustrate another example enclosure 200
suitable for use as an OTE 14 to seal over the second window 19.
The enclosure 200 has opposite first and second ends 203, 204
extending between opposite first and second sides 201, 202. The
enclosure 200 includes a base 205 and a cover 206 that cooperate to
define an interior. The cover 206 is pivotal relative to the base
205 between a closed position (FIG. 27) and an open position (e.g.,
FIG. 28). The base 205 and cover 206 cooperate to define a cable
storage region disposed within the interior of the enclosure
200.
[0103] In certain examples, the first end 203 of the enclosure 200
is approximately the same length as the second end 204. In certain
examples, the enclosure 200 is generally rectangular in shape
(e.g., see FIG. 27).
[0104] A first distribution cable port 207 is disposed at the first
side 201 of the enclosure 200 and a second distribution cable port
207 disposed at the second side 202 of the enclosure 200. The
second distribution cable port 207 is aligned with the first
distribution cable port 207 so that the cable 12 can extend
linearly through the enclosure 200.
[0105] A first drop cable port 208 is disposed at the first side
201 and a second drop cable port 208 is disposed at the second side
202. In some implementations, the drop cable ports 208 are smaller
than the distribution cable ports 207. In other implementations,
the drop cable ports 208 are the same size as the distribution
cable ports 207. In certain implementations, each side 201, 202
also defines additional drop cable ports 208. In some examples,
each side 201, 202 has a common number of drop cable ports 208. In
other examples, however, the sides 201, 202 can have different
numbers of drop cable ports 208.
[0106] In certain implementations, anchor members 209 are disposed
at the distribution cable ports 207 and/or the drop cable ports
208. The anchor members 208 extend outwardly from the ports 207,
208 and provide a surface to which the cables 12, 13 can be tied.
In certain examples, each anchor member 209 includes a radial
flange at a distal end to retain a cable tie. In certain examples,
the anchor members 209 for the distribution cable ports 207 are
larger than the anchor members 209 for the drop cable ports
208.
[0107] In certain examples, the cover 206 is larger than the base
205. In certain examples, the cover 206 extends beyond the base 205
sufficient to extend across the anchor members 209. In certain
examples, the cover 206 extends beyond the base 205 sufficient to
block the anchor members 209 from view from a front of the
enclosure 200. In certain examples, a lock between the cover 206
and the base 205 is disposed at the first end 203 or the second end
204 of the enclosure 200. In other examples, the lock may be
disposed on a front of the enclosure 200 (i.e., on the cover).
[0108] As shown in FIG. 29, certain implementations of the
enclosure 200 also define additional distribution cable ports 207.
For example, the first and second distribution cable ports 207 may
be disposed closer to the first end 203 of the enclosure 200 while
third and fourth distribution cable ports 207 are disposed closer
to the second end 204 of the enclosure 200 (compare FIGS. 28 and
30). Accordingly, the distribution cable 12 can be routed through
the enclosure 200 closer to the second end 204 than to the first
end 203.
[0109] In certain implementations, the distribution cable ports 207
are larger than the drop cable ports 208. A drop cable 13 can be
routed through any of the distribution cable ports 207. In the
example shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, up to four drop cables 13 can be
routed through the enclosure 200 in addition to the distribution
cable 12 by routing one of the four drop cables 13 through the
second set of distribution cable ports 207.
[0110] FIGS. 28 and 29 also show another example management
arrangement 210 suitable for managing the cut optical fibers within
the enclosure 200. The management arrangement 210 including a
splice tray 211 that facilitates splicing the cut optical fibers of
distribution cable 12 to fibers of drop cables 13. The splice tray
211 mounts to the base 205 to selectively cover the cable storage
region.
[0111] The splice tray 211 extends between opposite first and
second sides and between opposite first and second ends. The splice
tray 211 is pivotal relative to the base 205 along a respective
pivot axis to move between a storage position (FIG. 29) and an
access position (FIG. 28). In FIG. 28, the respective pivot axis is
disposed at the second end 204 of the base 205 and at the first end
of the splice tray 211. In FIG. 29, however, the orientation of the
management arrangement 210 has been moved 180.degree. compared to
FIG. 28. Accordingly, the respective pivot axis of the splice tray
211 is disposed at the first end 203 of the base 205, but still at
the first end of the splice tray 211. Moving the respective pivot
axis closer to the first end 203 of the base 205 accommodates
routing the distribution cable 12 through the distribution cable
ports 207 located closer to the second end 204 of the enclosure
200.
[0112] In certain implementations, the management arrangement 210
is upgradeable. One or more additional splice trays 211 may be
added to the management arrangement 210. For example, in FIGS. 30
and 31, the management arrangement 210 includes a first splice tray
211A, a second splice tray 211B, and a third splice tray 211C. Each
of the splice trays 211A-211C is pivotal relative to the base 205.
Each of the splice trays 211A-211C is pivotal relative to the other
splice trays. In certain examples, the splice trays 211A-211C have
co-axial pivot axes.
[0113] In certain implementations, each splice tray 211A-211C
includes a separate latch member that can latch to a latch arm of
the management arrangement 210 (e.g., see FIG. 31). As shown in
FIG. 31, a deeper cover 206' can be installed on the base 205 to
accommodate the additional splice trays. In other examples, the
original cover 206 may be sufficiently deep.
[0114] Referring now to FIGS. 32-49, another example enclosure 300
suitable for use as an OTE 14 to seal over the second window 19.
The enclosure 300 has opposite first and second ends 303, 304
extending between opposite first and second sides 301, 302. The
enclosure 300 includes a base 305 and a cover 306 that cooperate to
define an interior. The cover 306 is pivotal relative to the base
305 between a closed position (FIG. 32) and an open position (e.g.,
FIG. 37). The base 305 and cover 306 cooperate to define a cable
storage region disposed within the interior of the enclosure
300.
[0115] In certain examples, the first end 303 of the enclosure 300
is approximately the same length as the second end 304. In certain
examples, the enclosure 300 is generally rectangular in shape
(e.g., see FIG. 32).
[0116] A first distribution cable port 307 is disposed at the first
side 301 of the enclosure 300 and a second distribution cable port
307 disposed at the second side 302 of the enclosure 300. The
second distribution cable port 307 is aligned with the first
distribution cable port 307 so that the cable 12 can extend
linearly through the enclosure 300. In certain implementations, the
enclosure 300 also defines additional distribution cable ports 307.
For example, the first and second distribution cable ports 307 may
be disposed closer to the first end 303 of the enclosure 300 while
third and fourth distribution cable ports 307 are disposed closer
to the second end 304 of the enclosure 300. Accordingly, the
distribution cable 12 can be routed through the enclosure 300
closer to the second end 304 than to the first end 303.
[0117] Aligned pairs of drop cable ports 308 are disposed at the
first and second sides 301, 302. In some implementations, the drop
cable ports 308 are smaller than the distribution cable ports 307.
In other implementations, the drop cable ports 308 are the same
size as the distribution cable ports 307. In certain
implementations, each side 301, 302 also defines additional drop
cable ports 308. In some examples, each side 301, 302 has a common
number of drop cable ports 308. In other examples, however, the
sides 301, 302 can have different numbers of drop cable ports
308.
[0118] In certain implementations, anchor members 309 are disposed
at the distribution cable ports 307 and/or the drop cable ports
308. The anchor members 309 extend outwardly from the ports 307,
308 and provide a surface to which the cables 12, 13 can be tied.
In certain examples, each anchor member 309 includes a radial
flange at a distal end to retain a cable tie. In certain examples,
the anchor members 309 for the distribution cable ports 307 are
larger than the anchor members 309 for the drop cable ports
308.
[0119] In certain examples, the cover 306 is larger than the base
305. In certain examples, the cover 306 extends beyond the base 305
sufficient to extend across the anchor members 309. In certain
examples, the cover 306 extends beyond the base 305 sufficient to
block the anchor members 309 from view from a front of the
enclosure 300 (e.g., see FIG. 33).
[0120] In certain examples, a lock 323 between the cover 306 and
the base 305 is disposed at the first end 303 or the second end 304
of the enclosure 300. In other examples, the lock 323 may be
disposed on a front of the enclosure 300 (i.e., on the cover).
Examples of suitable locks 323 can be found in U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/661,204, filed Apr. 23, 2018, [attorney docket
no. 02316.7501USP1], the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
[0121] FIGS. 34-36 show another example management arrangement 310
suitable for managing the cut optical fibers within the enclosure
300. The management arrangement 310 including a fiber storage
structure 387 that is mountable within the interior of the
enclosure 300. The fiber storage structure 387 includes one or more
storage spools 388 and/or one or more radius limiters 389
configured for storing additional excess length of the fibers. In
certain examples, the fiber storage structure 387 is shaped to
accommodate loop winding and/or "FIG. 8" winding of optical
fibers.
[0122] In certain implementations, the management arrangement 310
also includes a guide member 318 configured to manage fibers
extending through the enclosure interior. In certain examples, the
guide member 318 defines a channel 319 aligned with the
distribution cable ports 307 to be used. In some examples, fibers
passing through the enclosure 300 without being broken out from the
distribution cable 12 are routed through the guide member 318. In
other examples, one or more fibers being broken out from the
distribution cable 12 within the enclosure 300 can pass through the
guide member 318.
[0123] In certain implementations, the management arrangement 310
is selectively mountable within the enclosure 300 in a first
orientation and in a second orientation that is flipped 180.degree.
from the first orientation. In certain implementations, the guide
member 318 is integrally formed with the fiber storage structure
387. For example, the guide member 318 can be carried with the
fiber storage structure 387 when the management arrangement 310 is
flipped between the first and second orientations. In an example,
the management arrangement 310 is disposed in the first orientation
when the distribution cable is to be received at the distribution
ports 307 disposed closer to the first end 303 of the enclosure 300
(e.g., see FIG. 37) and is disposed in the second orientation when
the distribution cable is received at the distribution ports 307
disposed closer to the second end 304 of the enclosure 300 (e.g.,
see FIG. 40).
[0124] In certain implementations, the management arrangement 310
is configured to latch or otherwise secure to the enclosure 300.
For example, the management arrangement 310 includes a first
mounting structure and the enclosure (e.g., the base 305) includes
a second mounting structure that fits with the first mounting
structure. For example, in the example shown, the management
arrangement 310 includes cantilevered surfaces 325, 327 at opposite
ends of the mounting arrangement 310. Each cantilevered surface
325, 327 includes a respective latching tab 326, 328,
respectively.
[0125] The base 305 includes a receiving arrangement 329 at
opposite ends 303, 304 of the base 305. In certain examples, the
receiving arrangements 329 are oriented to face each other and are
otherwise identical to each other. Each receiving arrangement 329
defines a latching receptacle 330 into which the latching tabs 326,
328 snap when the management arrangement 310 is installed within
the enclosure 300.
[0126] In certain implementations, the distribution cable 12 and
drop cables 13 can be anchored within the enclosure 300. In certain
examples, anchor members can be disposed within the enclosure 300
adjacent the distribution cable ports 307 and drop cable ports 308.
In some examples, the anchor members for the distribution cable
ports 307 include clamps 335 and the anchor members for the drop
cable ports 308 include cable tie receiving structures 336. In
other examples, the drop cables 13 can be clamped and/or the
distribution cable 12 can be tied. Other anchoring structures are
possible.
[0127] In the example shown, first and second anchor mounts 333,
334 are disposed adjacent distribution cable ports 307 and the drop
cable ports 308, respectively. A clamp 335 can be installed at the
first anchor mount 333 (e.g., by a fastener) to squeeze the cable
12. A cable tie receiving structure 336 can be installed at the
second anchor mount 334. In the example shown, a clamp 335 is only
installed at the distribution ports 307 at which the distribution
cable 12 is received. In certain examples, clamps 335 are disposed
at opposite sides of the enclosure 300 adjacent the aligned
distribution ports 307 at which the distribution cable 12 is
received.
[0128] A tray arrangement 312 is mountable within the interior of
the enclosure 300. The tray arrangement 312 includes one or more
trays 311 that are pivotal relative to the enclosure 300. In
certain examples, each tray 311 pivots relative to the fiber
storage structure 387. Each tray 311 pivots between a stowed
position (e.g., FIG. 38) and an access position (e.g., FIG. 39). In
certain examples, the tray arrangement 312 is mountable to the
enclosure 300 separate from the management arrangement 310.
[0129] In certain implementations, the tray arrangement 312 is
selectively mountable within the enclosure 300 in a first
orientation (see FIG. 38) and in a second orientation (see FIG. 41)
that is flipped 180.degree. from the first orientation. The trays
311 pivot towards the cover 306 when disposed in the first
orientation (see FIG. 39) and pivot towards the user when disposed
in the second orientation (see FIG. 42). In certain
implementations, the tray arrangement 312 is mounted to the
enclosure in the first orientation when the management arrangement
310 is mounted to the enclosure 300 in the first orientation (see
FIG. 39) and is mounted to the enclosure in the second orientation
when the management arrangement 310 is mounted to the enclosure 300
in the second orientation (see FIG. 42). In other implementations,
the tray arrangement 312 and management arrangement 310 can be
oriented opposite each other.
[0130] In certain examples, a hinge arrangement includes a hinge
piece 382 and a latch piece 384. The hinge piece 382 and the latch
piece 384 each include a retention structure 386 that slides into a
channel 331 defined by a respective one of the receiving
arrangements 329 within the enclosure 300 (see FIGS. 39 and 42). In
certain examples, the retention structure 386 includes a latch
member 388 that snaps into a latching receptacle 332 (FIG. 34)
defined in the receiving arrangements 329.
[0131] When the tray arrangement 312 is disposed in the first
orientation, the hinge piece 382 mounts in the channel 331 defined
in a first one of the receiving arrangements 329 and the latch
piece 384 mounts in the channel 331 defined in a second one of the
receiving arrangements 329. When the tray arrangement 312 is
disposed in the second orientation, the hinge piece 382 mounts in
the channel 331 defined in the second receiving arrangement 329 and
the latch piece 384 mounts in the channel 331 defined in the first
receiving arrangement 329.
[0132] The hinge piece 382 mounts to a hinge structure at one end
of a tray 311 (e.g., at a peripheral wall of the tray 311). In
certain examples, an additional tray 311 of the tray arrangement
312 mounts to the first tray 311. Subsequent trays mount to the
previous tray. Examples of a suitable hinge arrangement and tray
retention structure for use in mounting multiple trays 311 to the
enclosure 300 can be found in U.S. Provisional Application No.
62/792,724, filed Jan. 15, 2019, [attorney docket no.
02316.7628USP1], the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
[0133] Each tray 311 includes a main body 361 and a cover 363 that
cooperate to define an interior of the tray 311. Various components
350 can be disposed within the tray interior. Each tray 311 of the
tray arrangement 312 is elongate between opposite first and second
ends 362, 364. Each tray 311 includes a first fiber entrance 366 at
the first end 362 and a second fiber entrance 368 at the second end
364. In some examples, the first and second fiber entrances 366,
368 are configured to receive cable ties to secure fibers entering
the tray 311. In other examples, one or both of the first and
second fiber entrances 366, 368 includes a respective fiber
retainer 370 mounted thereat. Each fiber retainer 370 including a
resilient piece 372 defining fiber channels 374 and a cover 376
that mounts over the resilient piece 372 to close the fiber
channels 374.
[0134] In certain implementations, the main body 361 of each tray
311 includes a base 340 defining a plurality of mounting stations
342 (e.g., see FIGS. 44 and 45) at which various components 350 can
be selectively mounted. Each mounting station 342 includes a first
mounting structure 344. Each of the various components 350 includes
a second mounting structure 346 that fits with the first mounting
structure 344 to hold the component 350 at the mounting station
342. In certain examples, the first mounting structure 344 includes
a dovetail slot and a cantilevered stop member. The second mounting
structure 346 includes dovetailed tabs. Example first and second
mounting structures suitable for use with the tray 311 and
components 350 can be found in U.S. Provisional Application No.
62/661,437, filed Apr. 23, 2018, [attorney docket no.
02316.7495USP1], the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
[0135] In certain implementations, the various components 350
include a bend radius insert 352 and a splice holder 354. In
certain examples, the various components 350 also include a
splitter holder 356. In certain examples, the various components
350 also include a routing guide 358. In certain examples, the
second mounting structure 346 of each component 350 is identical.
In certain examples, one or more components 350 include two or more
sets of second mounting structures 346 to snap into two or more of
the mounting stations 342. For example, in certain examples, two
sets of second mounting structures 346 are disposed at the bottom
of the bend radius insert 352 (e.g., see FIG. 46).
[0136] In the example shown, the bend radius insert 352 includes
two spools 353 held at a fixed distance relative to each other by a
spacer piece 355. The second mounting structure 346 is disposed at
bottom of the spacer piece and/or at a bottom of the spools 353.
The spacer piece 355 spaces the spools 353 sufficient to
accommodate FIG. 8 routing, which enables a user to flip the
direction in which fibers are routed. In certain examples, the
spools 353 have a narrow portion facing each other. In certain
examples, the spools 353 are each elongate. In certain examples,
the spools 353 have tear-drop shapes. In certain examples, a
component 350 is mounted at opposite ends of the bend radius insert
352 to aid in defining a routing channel around the spools 353 (see
FIG. 43).
[0137] Referring now to FIGS. 47-49, a small capacity enclosure 300
can be initially provided to the subscriber with a first tray
arrangement 312 having a first capacity. Subsequently, the
enclosure and tray arrangement can be easily upgraded in the field.
The cover 306 is removed from the base 305. The tray arrangement
312 is upgraded to a larger capacity tray arrangement 412.
[0138] In some examples, the tray arrangement is upgraded by
installing additional trays 311 to the existing tray(s) 311 to form
the larger capacity tray arrangement 412. In other examples, the
tray arrangement is upgraded by replacing the first tray
arrangement 312 with a new tray arrangement 412 having more trays
311 than the first tray arrangement 312. The new tray arrangement
412 can be installed in either of the first and second orientations
(compare FIGS. 48 and 49).
[0139] A new cover 406 is mounted to the base 305. The new cover
406 is larger than the first cover 306. For example, the new cover
406 may have a thickness T2 (FIG. 47) that is greater than a
thickness T1 (FIG. 32) of the first cover 306. The increased
thickness T2 of the new cover 306 accommodates the additional trays
311 of the upgraded tray arrangement 412.
[0140] Alternatively, a supplier can provide one customer with the
smaller capacity enclosure 300 and another customer with the larger
capacity enclosure 300 depending on need.
[0141] Having described the preferred aspects and implementations
of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the
disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art.
However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be
included within the scope of the claims which are appended
hereto.
* * * * *